Online Reporter
Curtworth Masango
Zimpapers Sports Hub
YOUTH Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training Deputy Minister Kudakwashe Mupamhanga believes young people in sport must be supported in ways that completely change the course of their lives.
He was speaking at the 2025 Northern Region Soccer League awards where winners got life-changing prizes supported by MCM Estates over the weekend.
This was also an occasion that saw the unveiling of a new deal between the league and the same company for 2026.
“The biggest win is seeing the corporate world descend to the lower leagues to uplift our youth. Having corporates willing to partner with our leagues is a big deal for us,” said Mupamhanga.
“This partnership represents broad-based economic empowerment for our young people. It’s not just about traditional projects; it’s about supporting those in sports, arts, and culture.
“We saw a winner as young as 19 win a prize worth $24 000. That changes a young person’s life. No matter what happens in his football career, something has come from the sweat of his work.”
The NRSL also sealed a landmark title sponsorship deal with the property group.
Valued at US$310 000, the package is designed to fuel the growth of the game across the region.
“I hope more corporates follow this lead. I congratulate all the winners and appreciate MCM Estates for stepping in,” the Deputy Minister added.
Newly elected NRSL chairman Sweeney Mushonga is grateful for the support.
“The sponsorship aligns very well with our vision, where we try by all means to put our players at the centre of our business.
“Our business is playing football, so for us to be able to play football, we need to be able to take care of our players, we need to be able to take care of our coaches, and we also need to recognise the contribution from our match officials,” he said.
MCM Estates CEO Anthony McMullen said they believe their gesture will go a long way in assisting players.
“We are proud to associate ourselves with such a partnership and we are happy to unveil the MCM Estates Northern Region Soccer League,” said McMullen.
“If you take a closer look at our investment structure of a USD$200 and USD$125 instalment per month stand, you will realise that we designed it in a way that fosters inclusivity.
“We understand the struggles of football players where land investment is concerned, and it is our belief and hope that the birthing of the MCM Estates Northern Region Soccer League will go a long way in improving the net worth of division one players.”
11 Finalists
Trevor Bhunu, Simon Kufandada, Tinashe Balakasi, MacClive Phiri, Ignatius Mavende, Wilson Brown, Emmanuel Zinyama, Brandon Mpofu, Marlon Maziriri, Ashwin Chihowa, Junior Meya
Winners
2025 Coach of the Year: Paul Chimalizeni, 2025-Top Goal Scorer of the Year: Simon Grey Kufandada (17 Goals)
2025 Goalkeeper of the Year: Wilson Brown
2025 Rookie of the Year: Tendai Kamwanda
2025 Soccer Star of the Year 2nd Runner Up: Trevor Tawanda Bhunu
2025 Soccer Star of the Year 1st Runner Up: Emmanuel Zinyama,
2025 Soccer Star of the Year: Simon Grey Kufandada
dyton mupawaenda